Camiguin Province, Philippines

People of Camiguin

• As of the 2020 Census, Camiguin Province had a population of 92,808.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 88,478, reflecting steady growth over five years.
• Camiguin is historically home to the Kinamiguin people, a Visayan ethnolinguistic group with deep ties to the island’s volcanic terrain and coastal settlements. The Subanen and Manobo tribes also have ancestral connections to the region’s early history.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Kinamiguin—a local variant—was historically spoken in older communities. While these dialects shape local identity, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and global readiness.

Location of Camiguin

• Camiguin is an island province located in Northern Mindanao (Region X), approximately 10 kilometers off the northern coast of mainland Mindanao. Its geographic coordinates are 9.17°N latitude and 124.72°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 241.44 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest provinces in the Philippines. Its topography is dominated by volcanic peaks, including Mount Hibok-Hibok and Mount Timpoong, with lush forests, hot springs, and coastal plains. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from March to May and a wet season from June to December.
• The capital of Camiguin is Mambajao, and the Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Poblacion, which also houses the main government offices and civic institutions.
• Most people reach Camiguin via sea and air. The Benoni Port in Mahinog connects the island to Balingoan, Misamis Oriental. The Camiguin Airport in Mambajao offers flights to Cebu and Manila. From Cagayan de Oro, travelers can take a bus to Balingoan and then a ferry to Camiguin, with total travel time averaging 3–4 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Camiguin

• Sunken Cemetery: A historic site marked by a large cross, submerged during the 1871 eruption of Mount Vulcan.
• White Island: A pristine sandbar off the coast of Mambajao, popular for swimming and snorkeling.
• Katibawasan Falls: A 70-meter waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation, located in Mambajao.
• Ardent Hot Springs: A natural geothermal pool at the foot of Mount Hibok-Hibok.
• Old Church Ruins: Remnants of the Spanish-era Guiob Church in Catarman, destroyed by volcanic eruption.
• Lanzones Festival: Held every third week of October, this annual celebration honors the island’s signature fruit with street dancing, agro-trade fairs, and cultural shows.

Economy of Camiguin

• Camiguin’s economy is primarily driven by:
  • Tourism: Natural attractions, heritage sites, and festivals draw both domestic and international visitors.
  • Agriculture: Lanzones, coconut, root crops, and vegetables are widely cultivated.
  • Fisheries: Coastal communities engage in small-scale fishing and aquaculture.
  • Crafts and food processing: Local products include lanzones-based delicacies, woven mats, and native sweets.
• Camiguin ranks among the top eco-tourism destinations in Northern Mindanao. While province-specific GDP data is limited, its economic output is supported by sustainable tourism and agricultural exports.

Educational Institutions of Camiguin

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Camiguin Polytechnic State College (CPSC): A state college offering programs in agriculture, engineering, education, and technology. It has campuses in Mambajao and Catarman.
  • Fatima College of Camiguin: A private institution in Mambajao offering programs in business, education, and health sciences.
  • Philippine School of Entrepreneurship and Management: Offers specialized programs in business development and enterprise management.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Camiguin

• Camiguin’s name is derived from the native word “Kamagong,” referring to a species of ebony tree. The island was first visited by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 and later by Miguel López de Legazpi in 1565. Spanish missionaries established the first settlement in Guinsiliban in 1598, which served as a lookout post against Moro raiders.
• During the Spanish period, Camiguin was part of Misamis Province. It became a sub-province of Misamis Oriental in the early 20th century under American rule. The island’s strategic location and fertile volcanic soil made it a center for agriculture and trade.
• Camiguin was officially declared a separate province on June 18, 1966 through Republic Act No. 4669. It was further recognized with its own founding holiday, Araw ng Camiguin, celebrated every January 7 under Republic Act No. 9094.
• Today, Camiguin is known as the “Island Born of Fire,” with seven volcanoes shaping its landscape and history. It continues to thrive as a model for sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and ecological stewardship.

Elected Officials of Camiguin

• As of the 2025 elections, Camiguin Province is led by:
  • Governor: Xavier Jesus “XJ” Romualdo
  • Vice Governor: Dan-Dan Romualdo
  • Representative (Lone District): Jurdin Jesus “JJ” Romualdo
  • Board Members – First District: Shella Babanto, Marivic Jansol, Louis Bollozos
  • Board Members – Second District: Boyet Planco, Bem-Bem Loquias, Webb Bajenio
• For full election results and updates, visit: Camiguin Election Results.

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